RESPONSE - Toward a risk-based assessment of microplastic pollution in marine ecosystems (DTA.AD003.675)
Thematic area
Earth system science and environmental technologies
Project area
Rischi ambientali, naturali e antropici (DTA.AD003)Structure responsible for the research project
Istituto per lo studio degli impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità in ambiente marino (IAS)
Project manager
FRANCESCA GARAVENTA
Email: francesca.garaventa@ias.cnr.it
Abstract
RESPONSE integrates expertise on oceanography, environmental chemistry, ecotoxicology, experimental ecology and modelling to answer key research questions on fate and biological effects of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) in marine ecosystems. Hydrological transport dynamics will identify possible accumulation zones in European coastal ecosystems, while characterization of vertical distribution of MPs and NPs in the water column and sediments will optimise practical monitoring and sampling efforts. Links between oceanographic conditions, environmental distribution of MPs and NPs, trophic transfer and impact to pelagic food webs and benthic communities will be addressed by analysing their abundance and typologies in representative marine species, as well as relevant ecosystem functions and services. Innovative mesocosm and laboratory studies will validate weighting factors and toxicological thresholds for MPs and NPs. The
approach will assess the role of size, shape and other polymer characteristics in modulating biological effects of particles, both alone and in combination with other environmental stressors.
Goals
The overall aim of RESPONSE is to develop a quantitative Weight Of Evidence (WOE) model for MPs and NPs in the marine environment. The model will be designed to integrate and differentially weight data from a suite of lines of evidence, including (1) the presence of MPs and NPs in water column and sediments, (2) their bioavailability and bioaccumulation in key indicator species from benthic and planktonic communities (3) sublethal effects measured via biomarkers, (3) the onset of chronic adverse effects at the organism level, and (4) ecological functioning. The results will provide support for development of MSFD monitoring strategies.
Start date of activity
01/09/2020
Keywords
microplastics, nanoplastics, risk assessment
Last update: 08/06/2025